Bearclaw Valley I'd never want once from the cherry tree

Cole’s ear flicked instinctively, catching the faint crunch of snow behind him just a split second before the weight came crashing down. His muscles tensed, and he braced himself, snarling as a heavy body collided with his own. He twisted sharply, teeth bared, his instincts taking over as he rolled and pinned the assailant beneath him with a powerful shove of his shoulders.
Dammit, boy! Cole barked, his snarl morphing into a growl of irritation as recognition dawned. He loomed over Ancelin, his golden eyes narrowing. I thought you were some fuckin' rogue!
He huffed, his breath visible in the cold morning air, and released the Rex with a grunt, stepping back to allow him room to rise. Scarin’ me like that, he muttered, his voice softer now but still carrying an edge. Didn't mean to pin 'ya, Rex.
Cole shook his broad head, a faint flicker of amusement creeping into his otherwise gruff demeanor. Next time, give a man some warnin', huh?